How To Celebrate Bastille Day In New York City For Summer 2024
Ring in the French holiday with an ultra-chic celebration in the streets of New York City.
If visiting France isn't in the cards this summer, opt to enjoy your own slice of French culture in New York City. For Bastille Day 2024, the city's premiere French restaurants, bakeries, wine bars, and cultural associations are going all out with electrifying parties, daytime festivals, and decadent special menus.
Bastille Day, which takes place on July 14 each year, celebrates the storming of the Bastille back in 1789. The historical event acted as a major movement that is thought to have spurred the French Revolution, ushering in an era of liberation for French citizens across the country. In France, the holiday is typically celebrated with extravagant fireworks, street festivals, and plenty of raucous parties.
Without further ado, see all of the must-visit Bastille Day celebrations taking place in New York City in 2024, with selections ranging from laid-back Bastille-themed confections in the city's leading French bakeries to all-out festivals.
L'Alliance New York Bastille Day 2024 Celebration
Looking to celebrate Bastille Day in 2024 with an all-out bash? Join L'Alliance New York for its annual Bastille Day celebration, which takes place right in the heart of Manhattan. The event includes plenty of enriching cultural programming, a champagne party, several French film screenings, and local French vendors. For those in search of an entertaining afternoon event, opt for this classic NYC community celebration infused with a festive French twist that boasts the largest attendance of any local Bastille Day event.
Where: Madison Avenue, from 59th St to 63rd St
When: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., July 14, 2024.
Bastille Day French Music Festival
In honor of the French holiday, the French Consulate is hosting its annual French Music Festival—a high-energy event among the most popular Bastille Day New York City celebrations. In Central Park, iconic French musicians like IAM, The Avener, and Laurie Darmon are slated to play to large crowds. Whether you're drawn to classic French easy-listening tunes or electrifying rap numbers, the festival offers something for every New Yorker to enjoy.
Where: Central Park, Enter at 72nd St and Fifth Avenue.
When: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m., July 14, 2024.
Bastille Day Rosé Party
For those trying to beat the stifling NYC summer heat, opt for this indoor celebration. Hosted by L'Alliance New York, guests are invited to enjoy refreshing rosé, top-tier French prosecco, bespoke cocktails, and artisanal French chocolate confections in the L'Alliance Skyroom. Whether you're there for the rosé, the luxurious French chocolates, or the live jazz, any New Yorker is sure to enjoy this laid-back Bastille Day celebration. Interested in attending? Be sure to reserve a ticket with L'Alliance New York ahead of your visit.
Where: L'Alliance Skyroom, 22 East 60th Street, New York City.
When: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., July 14, 2024.
Bastille Day Brunch
Start off your 2024 Bastille Day celebration right with a stop in at Levant on Smith, an ultra-chic French restaurant in Brooklyn. Indulge in your favorite French breakfast dishes, like a classic French omelet or a crispy Croque Madame, and enjoy a selection of Parisian Sangria, Mimosas, Bellinis, and Bloody Mary drinks to accompany your meal. Other popular menu selections available for Bastille Day 2024 include Parisian crepes, salmon tartine, quiche, and classic frisée salad. Looking to kick off your busy Bastille Day with a cozy brunch? Be sure to make a reservation ahead of your visit to Levant on Smith.
Where: Levant on Smith, 223 Smith Street, Brooklyn.
When: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., July 14, 2024.
Bastille Day At La Cantine
Although beginning your Bastille Day New York City celebration at La Cantine is certainly a fitting option—the cafe is famous for its French pastries, indulgent coffee drinks, and French bistro-style sandwiches—the restaurant is offering a special Bastille Day sunset menu. Enjoy a wide selection of top-tier French wines, classic Parisian charcuterie, and quintessential French dishes like ratatouille and boeuf bourguignon. Enjoy the sunset and gentle breeze in the restaurant's outdoor garden area or opt for a candlelit table in the minimalistic indoor cafe space. If you're planning on wrapping up your Bastille Day at La Cantine, be sure to make a reservation ahead of time.
Where: La Cantine, 60 St. Nicholas St., Brooklyn.
When: 5:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m., July 14, 2024.
